“I think it is an immutable law in business that words are words, explanations are explanations, promises are promises - but only performance is reality.”
“What we needed were not words and promises but a steady accumulation of small realities.”
“The words that I will have to find for that explanation will be sharp and they will hurt, much worse than the thorns of roses.”
“As a leader, your word is only as good as your last promise kept or broken.”
“The yeehaw explanation is we're too busy chasing meat'n'pussy.”
“Oh, and Mr. Montgomery? I think I counted about four dozen important-sounding words and almost no substance at all in that explanation. I don’t think you should close the door on your diplomatic career entirely.”